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Game-Changing Cancer and Endometriosis Tests Coming Soon
6 Mar
Summary
- New lateral flow urine tests for breast cancer are in development.
- Similar tests are being explored for endometriosis and PCOS diagnosis.
- Wales is rolling out women's health hubs across the country.
Innovative diagnostic tests for breast cancer and endometriosis are being developed in Wales, with researchers aiming for prototype kits within the next year. These "game-changing" lateral flow urine sample tests are designed for at-home use and are intended to detect early-stage breast cancers with high accuracy, complementing current diagnostic methods.
The same testing approach is being explored for diagnosing endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), conditions often subject to delayed diagnoses. This research is funded by the Welsh government's £75 million investment in women's health. Further testing for accuracy is anticipated to take three to five years, with a target of 90% accuracy or greater.
These advancements are integrated into Wales' 10-year women's health plan, which includes establishing women's health hubs in every health board. These hubs will prioritize menopause care, contraception, and pelvic health, aiming to bring specialist care closer to home and reduce waiting times in secondary care.
As of March 2026, each health board in Wales will have at least one women's health hub serving its community. These hubs are designed to fill gaps and break down barriers to care, with ongoing evaluation to spread best practices across the country.
